Pottsville spring football ended last Friday with promise ahead for next season. Coach Brian Rust said the backfield could be a key to success. Rust came from Hector High School after posting a 9-3 record to take over a Pottsville team (3-7 in 2006) looking to rebuild and rebound from a disappointing season.

"We had three really good linemen last season and I'm not sure you can replace all of them," Rust said. "I still think we're not real deep on the line of scrimmage, but I think we answered a few questions."

Rust said lots of players might see action as the backfield should be solid and players could step up into future roles.

"Blake Sheppard looks pretty good in the backfield," Rust said. "We have a lot of people in the backfield. We have a lot of kids that I think could step up and be pretty good."

Rust said the backfield has experience and depth enough to where a number of players could be used. He also said there are some young backs that are learning their role and could be the future for Pottsville.

"The backfield has experience," Rust said. "And with the guys we've got up front, we could possibly be real good up front too."

Rust talked about returning and new players. He said some players changed positions and could play new roles at key positions for the Apaches.

Jonathan Huffman, Jacob Irwin and junior quarterback Josh Falls will be returning to solidify the offense for the Apaches. Up front for Pottsville, Mark Scott is an "animal," Rust said. Scott should see some time at tight end.

Josh Wilker is good enough to be in the backfield, Rust said, but will see time at the guard position. Jacob Moore a former fullback/linebacker has been working at the guard position to where Rust hopes he will be just as successful.

The offensive line could make or break the Apaches and determine how their season goes. Because of the depth and number of backs Pottsville has, the O-line could see changes as the season goes on. Rust said to look for players to play duel roles on both offense and defense.

Brian Hathaway is being looked at for offensive tackle, Rust said, because of his size and athleticism. At the tight end position, Ben Wells and Justin Robertson could each see some time. Robertson played guard last year, but could see action at the tight end position and play a huge role.

"I think we'll maybe be a little bit better than what everybody expects," Rust said. "The kids are extremely excited and just really hopeful and anticipating a good year.

"They've come out and worked really hard, so who knows what's going to happen when till the time comes, the possibilities are really good."

Pottsville is hoping the success Rust had at Hector will carry over. Rust was hired as head coach after Phil Collins retired last season. Rust said he saw promise in spring practice and hopes the changes he's made will work out for the best.